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Sunday, February 14

Individual vs. the group

Although close to 14% of school districts have reported having a uniforms policy, the idea has been hotly debated. On the one hand, supporters claim that it bridges some differences between poor and more affluent students. Also they point to the lack of worrying over what to wear, something that promotes efficiency and boosts a unitary school spirit. School administrators finally spend less time on enforcing a dress code. On the other hand, opponents point to the cost of purchasing a uniform which may impose an extra burden on parents (although a donation program is alleviating the burden).But most importantly they lament over the loss of individualism and the reign of group mentality.

Not so, protest the supporters. They point to other countries, like Japan, where the majority of schools have enforced a uniform policy and the debate is almost non-existent. They also refer to the case of the snowboarder Kazuhiro Kokubo in the Vancouver Winter Olympics. Play the video and look at the way the young athlete on the left wears his clothes. In the end of the video he is apologizing as his appearance caused uproar back in Japan. The Ski Association of Japan stated that “It is not the way the Japanese delegation should dress themselves while taxpayers' money is spent on them" and debated whether to kick Kokubo out of the Games altogether. You see, the idea that one should be punished for offending the group is not difficult to swallow. The Japanese Olympic Committee however decided to only ban him from participating in the opening ceremonies and allow him to compete later in his event.

Consequently, the supporters assert, adherence to group rules becomes more important if taxpayers are paying for it. Therefore, school uniforms, are fair game.

80 comments:

I would definitely support school uniforms! I feel like uniforms eliminate so much of the difficulty of fitting in, looking "cool" and wearing the "right" brand name that kids have to deal with everyday at school. Will there still be stereotyping and prejudice held against one another? Of course. But would uniforms help eliminate much of the stress and pressure that kids go through... I think so! And I don't feel like the use of uniforms would significantly decrease the amount of personality and sense of individuality that we have in this country.I suppose it mostly comes down to opinion, and I'd have to say that I think my life as a female student (particularly through middle school) would have been much less stressful if I had the issue of clothing taken care of and decided for me!

I am all for school uniforms. Uniforms help eliminate all the hassle and worrying about what outfit to wear and the stresses out about the “in” name brands or “latest trends”. Those students less fortunate would appreciate fitting in with the same uniforms that all students must wear. School boards would also be less hassled with trying to enforce school dress codes so often. I know while I was in high school I noticed classmates always being written up for school dress code violations, I myself have also been written up. If school uniforms were enforced it would have eliminated those minor write ups. I do not feel uniforms makes one lose their individualism, your personality stays the same. In middle school, I was enforced to wear uniforms; however, I felt as if I were the same person just uniformed with my classmates. Uniforms are a great idea for all schools around the world and I support them all the way.

I think that kids who have to wear uniforms don’t have as many problems as far as whose family makes more money. In public schools that don’t have uniform policies have more problems with this issue. As for the Kid representing his country and having his shirt pulled out of his pants. I feel he is a disgrace to not only his school but his country. I feel that whoever made the decision to not allow him to participate in the opening ceremonies was right in doing so. I would never want to disgrace my country by looking all disheveled in my attire. I would want everyone to know how proud I was to be an American.

I think that kids who have to wear uniforms don’t have as many problems as far as whose family makes more money. In public schools that don’t have uniform policies have more problems with this issue. As for the Kid representing his country and having his shirt pulled out of his pants. I feel he is a disgrace to not only his school but his country. I feel that whoever made the decision to not allow him to participate in the opening ceremonies was right in doing so. I would never want to disgrace my country by looking all disheveled in my attire. I would want everyone to know how proud I was to be an American.

Personally I have to oppose on the uniform policy. Only because I had to wear uniforms when i was in school. First off they never gave you the right size uniform which then made you more of a target to get picked on. You were no longer set out because of the "type" of clothes you wore. It then became an issue of how you wore the uniform that they gave you to wear. The school has certain policies on how you must wear the uniform or you are punished. For the kids that followed these policies, a day in school being made fun of was just like any other in a school without uniforms. The "cool" kids on the other hand would stretch and bend the rules to get away with the dress code as much as they could. Honestly just because you have uniforms that doesn't stop the issues that occur in public schools without them.

I am not really sure where i stand with this issue because i understand the use of uniforms, i had to wear them in elementary school i did not understand it then, but i know now that it was so everyone looked the same and no one was criticized for how they were dressed if they could not afford good cloths that everyone else was wearing. But i do not think that people should be forced to wear uniforms unless they are payed for by the school. it doesn't make any sense to me to force the parents to pay for uniforms which may even be more expensive then regular clothes. Also i think uniforms take away individuality who says that everyone dressing and being the same is better? whats next girls must have bows in there hair and boys must have short haircuts? Personally I think it should be a choice. yes their should be a dress code but not specific outfits that everyone should wear. Lets be honest with ourselves it does not matter what kids are wearing they will always get picked on. Nothing is ever perfect, they could get picked on for the type of shoes they wear, style of their hair, their teeth may not be straight enough, kids will point out anything just to get laughs and feel like they are cooler. Nothing in this world will ever eliminate this issue besides good parenting skills and honestly they should stop wasting their time and money on this because clothing is not the issue rude misbehaved kids who just enjoy going to school to bully other kids are the issue.

I am shocked to find when posting on the topic of school uniforms that my personal opinion has changed drastically in regards to how I would have responded as a high school student. I can recall even to this day having a very set belief concerning this debate, and it is interesting to see that with age my belief has gone the opposite way to support school uniforms.The classic argument will always be that having the freedom to dress as you please (within school dress codes, at least) exercises individualism, and I agree. We all have free will, and within activities outside of school, students can flaunt personal style and interests. However, I do believe that students are in school for a reason, and not having school uniforms seems to create more problems than prevent them. Students worry over what to wear, administrators have the discretionary task of enforcing a dresscode, and differences between poor and affluent students are painfully clear without the sort of donation system uniforms provide. Frankly, at my age and given these conditions, I find this debate a bit self-explanatory. Students are at school to develop an education, and there should be as few distractions as possible. The awkward age that students reach at a certain point in school brings enough opportunity for social struggles to be balanced with school work without having them based on the petty topic of clothing.Another incredibly clear point that seems to come to mind when debating whether uniforms should remain absent on the basis of loss of individualism and group mentality is that clothes do not make the person. It almost seems laughable to me that students or parents would mourn the death of individualism based on not a complete lack of choice of what to wear, but a limited choice between varied uniform shirts and pants to only be worn while on school campus. Students are not forced to abide by such a constricting dress code when off school grounds, and I find it hard to believe that individualism could be killed all in the course of a school day.

I support uniforms! I kind of wish I had had them when I went to school just to take the stress out of picking out clothes to wear, plus my parents would have saved a small fortune when back to school shopping came around. Also, I think kid's can accessorize uniforms and make them more unique if they choose to. A person's character, attitude and personality should be unique enough to make them individualistic in life, we send a wrong message that something as superficial as clothing should speak for them. I think so many teens and kids sadly conform to what their peers think, say and do and are easily influenced and pressure to "fit in" and "be cool" no matter how creative their exterior is. If a person has a mind of their own and has self esteem and a non-conformistic attitude then what they wear on the outside should not reflect differently.

I would support school uniforms, now that I'm not in high school! I deffinitely think it would help eliminate social class discrimination and also completely eliminate having to worry about what you are going to wear to school the next day. Yes, I'm sure some kids would hate it but I think that in the long run, having school uniforms for every school would produce a very positive outcome. It would be nearly impossible to get dress code, students couldn't really judge eachother based on appearance, and best of all for the parents there wouldn't be much school shopping! School uniforms could pretty much only make things better.

I’m not sure where I sit in this debate. I think school uniforms can be beneficial. I see them at Wal-Mart and Target for relatively low prices and you would only need five sets if you did laundry on the weekend. Besides the money saving aspect, I think children wouldn’t have to worry what to wear everyday. Further, I can recall that as a cheerleader, wearing a uniform conveyed that I was part of a group. As such, I had to act in certain ways to make sure I didn’t upset what the group stood for. If there is a school uniform, it comes with the understanding that you have to act a certain way while in it to represent your group (school). Now on the flip side, I don’t think it will be a great deterrent regarding “rich kids” teasing “poor kids.” Kids will always find a way to differentiate themselves. Whether it is an expensive watch or some other piece of jewelry, there will always be a way to tell differences in the students. We are being hypocritical as a society if we constantly preach independence and self-expression, yet take their individualism away.

I personally do not feel that uniforms in schools will help students feel more like equals. The blog was stating that it would bridge the differences between the wealthy and poor students, so should we restrict the type of vehicles high school students are allowed to drive or the type of back pack or lunch boxes middle school and elementary school students are allowed to carry? This will not help the students make it in the “real world.” When you work you have to wake up and choose what outfit you are going to wear. People will always be faced with the fact that someone is better dressed then themselves. That is a part of life. If a school wants to implement a uniform policy it should be with the intention to unify the school not to help them spend less time enforcing the dress code.

I have mixed feelings about school uniforms. Yes, it would help students in many ways during the week especially with saving time. However, every student is different and they want to be unique as well as not like everyone else. With that being said, many kids express themselves with their own individuality with the clothes they where, its exactly what sets them apart from everyone else. When your in high school your trying to figure yourself out. For instance, who you want to be as a person, i think uniforms will have a big impact on students. Also, uniforms can be expensive some families are just making it by and if they have more than five children it can start causing problems.

As someone that is opposed to enforcing a school uniform, I would first like to say: who cares about boosting a unitary school spirit. The students of an institution will eventually move on to a career, school, or military so unitary school spirit is completely irrelevant in the education, (which is what is actually important here)of a student. Studies have shown that when people are given more atonomy they tend to have increased performance and attendance. Also I'd like to say, if the school didn't have a dress code to enforce then they wouldn't have to spend a lot of time enforcing it. School is a place where students spend a lot of time, so they should be able to express themselves and be comfortable doing it. If the students are confined to the uniform of their school it might effect the way that they express themselves in the future.

I do not support school uniforms anymore. Although it may reduce the amount of time taken for most girls and some boys to get ready in the morning, I feel that we should be able to wear what we want to express ourselves. I know that we should go to school to gain knowledge and not to go to show what clothes we have or how rich we are. Some clothes can be distracting and some people may look wealthier than others, but that’s how those people express themselves. We should have the freedom to wear what we want to make us feel the way we want. I wore a uniform everyday to school for twelve years in Vietnam and it got old. There are only one or two uniform options to wear so I felt like I was wearing the same thing everyday which made me feel dirty. When you wear a uniform, you cant just wash it everyday so it will be ready for tomorrow. Who wants to do laundry everyday? You can order more than one or two, but there isn’t any point in doing that when it’s the same. I think some people will change their mind once they have to wear a uniform to school. We all want what we don’t have. Wearing a uniform to school is easier but how hard is it to put on pants and a shirt? Some girls just need to cut down on the amount of time taken to get ready.

Many reasons could be behind why Kokubo dressed that way. Air ports these days. I don’t think it should not be held against him at all, but what do I know? I live in the U.S.A. I had to take a second, third and fourth look at the clip just to see what the big problem was. If the rules are that strict why didn’t the guy without his tie on get in trouble?

Personally, I think uniforms are a great idea. It makes it pretty easy to get dressed since there isn’t much to pick from. Uniforms keep down cost of cloths, keeps down jealousy, and bias.

I would oppose the subject of school uniforms. It takes away from individualism and wearing what you want to wear. Everyone wearing the same thing would get extremely boring. You wouldn't be able to pick out a certain person in a crowd if everyone looked the same. Sure it would take a lot less time to find something to wear or prevent someone from wearing inappropriate clothing, but it takes away from our freedom. It also makes the school seem more like a prison than an actual learning institution.

I support the idea of school uniforms. Money can play a major role when it comes down to buying school clothes. By schools enforcing uniforms it allow families to save money, especially when they have a lot of children to buy for. Uniforms provide less taunting when it comes down to children who are less fortunate than others. Although everyone will look the same, children have their own ways of showing their personality. Children go to school just to mess up their clothes (that’s the way it seems to me).If its not ketchup from lunch then it is dirt from PE. I personally love the idea; I don’t have to worry about them messing up their good clothes.

I have mixed opinions when it comes to this blog. I can see both sides of it, but I am leaning more towards being opposed to this topic. I remember when I was in high school I didn’t want to wear a uniform. Not because I cared what they looked like, but more for the comfort. It seemed like they would be very uncomfortable to wear throughout a school day. Also, for some people being able to dress how they choose do it a big thing for them in showing there individualism. On the other side, it would make getting ready for school in the morning a lot easier for some people.

I support school uniforms solely because they show less discrimination towards economy class and I think there would be less self esteem issues.

A lot of families cannot afford to go out every year and buy a whole new wardrobe for one child, none the less for multiples.

As for the self esteem, I think it is safe to say that the majority of kids in grade school suffer with some sort of self esteem issues. Many of these could include: low income, weight issues (wether they be under or over weight)or just not being considered "cool" in general.

I only had to wear uniforms for one year in elementary school, and I could have cared less. And like someone else mentioned, I forget who, it would give you a lot more time to sleep in the mornings, not having to decide what to wear!

I support uniforms 100 percent.I believe kids won't get made fun of because of the clothes they have are up to date.These days going to school is all about style. But yet if you have to wear blue jeans and a white shirt what style do you have?None all the kids are wearing the same clothes. It's not "look what she got on"or" what does she think she wearing." And yes it's great to wake up in the morning and know you dont have to go through all your clothes to figure out what to wear.Kids dont like it I know I didn't like ,but my feeling towards uniforms changed and I feel as if the kids should wear uniform nowdays.

I would support school uniforms because some students cant afford going by clothes for school. If students are wearing uniforms and everybody is dress the same, no students can talk about what people are wearing. When I was in high school students would be talking about and making bad comments about how some students dress and how many time they wore that shirt, sweater, or jeans just beacuse they couldnt afford to go buy clothes. So if all students are dressed the same nobody can talk about what students wear and how poor they are or what name brands they have. Nobody would be worrying about how people look and whats in style.

I do believe that school uniforms are very positive; for instance, when kids are not worrying about the latest fashions and can concentrate on school. We all win. The cost of school uniforms are not significant compared to the clothes kids would purchase if they were able. And I think that children in uniforms feel more a part of the group; and conform and do better in school. For example, I sent my daughter to private school through the 8th grade and she had to wear uniforms; she never complained and she made principles honor roll every year. Her mother thought that it would be good for our daughter to attend high school, in a public school. My daughter went from honor roll to failing school and quitting school. I can’t say it was just because of uniforms; however, I do believe that the structure and smaller classrooms in combination was much better situation. When my daughter was presented with an environment of more freedom and choice; she made very bad decisions. So, this is the reason I think uniforms are helpful.

I support the use of uniforms under certain circumstances. If the uniforms for schools were suits for boys and skirts and blouses for girls like they are in Japan. Also, I think that there should be a choice of a few styles and colors so everyone can express some personality without looking sloppy. I like the idea of uniforms because it gives an atmosphere of professionalism and formalism which will encourage work more than play. Uniforms would also have to be affordable. Students who cannot afford the uniforms can receive a discount on the uniform or get it for free. Uniforms would also eliminate numerous social problems within schools and create a school body that is together as one with no discrimination for social class. This would also encourage children to focus on school rather than trends and popular clothing. Uniforms would be a great way to bring students together to create a professional and unified ambiance within the school system while keeping the goal of teaching students.

I support uniforms in school. There are numerous benefits to having uniforms; however, in my opinion, the equality it promotes is the most important. At school, the rift between the affluent and impoverished can be clearly seen through the clothes they wear. The more affluent students often wear name brand clothes to show that they are of a higher social class. The poorer students are subject to wearing cheaper and less flattering clothes. Uniforms would pave this social cleavage. When all boys wear the same thing and all girls wear the same thing, the distinction between them is greatly lessened. This also prevents kids from teasing others because of their “unfashionable” clothing. Furthermore, uniforms eliminate having to pick out your clothes. On average, it takes me thirty minutes to one hour to pick out my clothes for school. Uniforms would completely eliminate the need to pick out clothes for school and I would gain that hour to exercise or do homework. Another advantageous effect of school uniforms is diminished distraction. Revealing clothing is eradicated when uniforms are enforced. There will be no room for people to dress in ostentatious clothing that draws attention to them.

To be honest I believe that schools shouldn't worry about the individuals attending their school. In a country where we are free to do whatever we want. Yes, there is individualism and there always will be somehow. Yeah school uniforms are great but people need to express themselves however they feel necessary by dressing however they want. Otherwise they will find other ways to show individualism. Things like tattoos, piercings, and freaky hair styles. I'm not saying that all students will do this, but I believe some will go to extreme measures to be different. I don't like it. Let everyone be individual.

It could honestly go both ways. Uniforms would be a great way to bring together the rich and poor, make students concentrate more on school then what they are wearing. It would help eliminate groups that exclude others and maybe even unify a school more. The only problem is it takes away from that individual expression we love to use. It is in a way a form of suppression of individuality but sometimes discipline and not getting your way about things is good. I would promote uniforms because it is more efficient, brings people together upon looks and promotes unity and a heightened sense of school pride. I love wearing my military uniforms and I like knowing what I'm going to wear ahead of the time.

I think the decision should be up to the kids who would have to wear the uniforms whether they want to wear them or not. I see benefits in having kids wear uniforms not socially but it could play a part in safety, identifying children attending different schools, trespassers from rival schools or skipping. As far as closing the social bridge between rich and poor I don't see that being accomplished. Having to a wear a uniform all through elementary school I know first hand that wearing a uniform doesn't stop there it comes down to who has the best lunch boxes, shoes, backpacks and even school supplies. People are always going to find a way to one up themselves with or without guidelines.

Personally, I support uniforms.You wouldn't have to worry about what to wear when you wake up.That would save a lot of time and all you would have to do is put on the uniform and you would be good to go.Others wouldn't have to worry about fitting into a certain type of group because everyone would have a uniform on.Also,uniforms would make my life and others as well less stressful.You wouldn't have to worry about how you look and if what your wearing matched your outfit and what not.Everybody worrys about how they look in clothes.So,having uniforms would slove this problem!

I support school uniforms. In elementary school I wore uniforms and once I left it was a hassle to wear regular clothes. As I got into middle school and especially high school school shopping was torture. I hated waking up early to get dressed and then having to worry whether someone would say something to me about my clothes. Uniforms help students see other students for them and not by what they wear. My younger sister does not have to wear uniforms to her school and every morning she sits and waste fifteen minutes to find something to wear. Uniforms do not take away individualism and they are a better way to help those who cannot afford to buy regular clothes all the time like other kids.

I would gladly support the idea of uniforms. They are very convenient when it comes to eliminating the idea of prejudice amongst social groups. For some of us who’ve gone to grade school in Florida, we’ve grown up on uniforms so it’s not really a big deal. Arguments towards uniforms interfering with people showing their individuality could be dismissed by allowing students to add accessories to the uniform if they wished (cool socks, ties, shoes, etc.). Uniforms would also eliminate some of the stress on deciding what to wear everyday (I know it would help me!) Besides, it seems teachers have more of an issue with enforcing a school’s dress code to begin with. However, I do have to agree with TRAMPUS when he/she said that even with uniforms, students can still be harassed for how they wear it or by the way it fits and it defiantly does not stop people from finding other things to pick on.

I think when it comes down to expressing your individuality there is a time and a place for it and school isnt one of those said places. The focus at school should be on learning and paying attention in class not on what type of shirt the kid next to you is wearing. another issue concerning distraction would be low cut jeans on girls or cleavage revealing shirts. now im all for those two things dont get me wrong but it can be a bit difficult at times to listen to what your teacher is saying when a girl in front of you has her butt or boobs hanging out.I think that uniforms would solve that problem and set the tone for the school that tone being this place is a serious place of learning and that is the students main focus. I find it kind of strange that people are perfectly fine with uniforms at work but not at school.I guess when money is involved you tend not to speak up.

Uniforms are terrific in school systems and I think should be universally enforced at all schools. If you critically weigh the pros and cons of uniforms in schools, not dress codes but uniforms, it’s almost ridiculous that it isn’t. Individuality? Let their personalities grades/projects/extracurricular accomplishments define who they are. Cost? I’m pretty sure the cost of three to five uniforms would be much less expensive than an entire winter and spring wardrobe. Time? Undoubtedly saved without having to make sure every kid isn’t trying to get away with something (which they are, I was one). Kids have plenty to distract themselves away from their studies, they’ll invent reasons. Being clothed for school shouldn’t be one of those things.

I believe that this video does not fairly defend this topic. The snowboarder was in a formal circumstance where he should have dressed professionally. However, on the subject of uniforms, I am opposed. Sure, it would definitely assist in certain aspects of fitting in because of the "right" clothes or going through the hassle on some mornings and debating on what to wear but one of the many things that is appreciated of the public school system in the United States is their importance on individuality and nurturing creativeness. I don't believe we would be allowing that opportunity by turning every child in the country into a blazer wearing clone. That's not to say we should not have any limits. All schools have the regulations around dress code and what is respectfully acceptable. Therefore, I am a nay on this matter C:

I do not support enforcing uniforms. This makes it harder for children to express who they really are, especially when they reach middle and high school. I understand that this may eliminate some teasing because of the economical situations students parents may be in, but uniforms can be expensive too. I feel that when taking someones right to express themselves it takes away individuality as well. Dresing in unique ways may produce social groups but sometimes these groups are good. It can help students who are alike come together and socialize. The way a person dresses can tell a lot about that person. And to many, if someone dresses simmular to yourslef, then it may be easier to start a connecftion between the twp people. The freedom to be able to dress the way you want in school should be allowed. Although there should be rules, like for everything else, students should not be forcd to wear uniforms, even if it is used to help stop social groups from forming.

Personally, I disagree with a school uniform policy. I do understand why so many people would support it, as there are many positives. Having a uniform requirement does make it a bit easier for students to get dressed in the morning, there would not be a clothing debate every day. Also, it would probably help diminish some of the cliques at school. If everyone dressed the same, they could not tell if a child came from a wealthy or poor family. However, I believe it removes the students' individuality, and their ability to express themselves with clothing. When we lived in Germany, my children had to wear uniforms to school. It was an extra expense, it was hard to pick out my children in a crowd, as everyone of the children were dressed alike. The uniforms were also hard to buy, as the popular sizes disappeared off of the store shelves very quickly. I understand that it might be better here, as far as shopping for school uniforms go, but I still disagree. I also had to wear a uniform when I was in grade school, and I didn't like it either!

I do not support the use of a uniform policy in school because there are no real advantages to having it. People for the policy often argue that it would save money that you would spend on normal clothes, but no one forces people to buy name brand or high end clothing. No uniforms in schools is somewhat part of the American socialization process and would be one of the only ways left for self representation. Also, the pressures associated with wearing worn out clothes stems from the parents of kids who make fun of others. Kids aren't born from the womb knowing the difference between name brand or Goodwill, so their knowledge of this comes from their parents.

I support school uniforms! There was a vote on having schools uniforms in my middle school many years ago and only two people voted for it. My parents and I were one of the two votes. I feel that it is much easier for there to be uniforms because you would know what your wearing everyday. There would be no hassle of picking out something to wear each morning and the administers wouldn't have to give punishment for students who wear too short of shorts or for mid-drifts showing, because everyone would look appropriate. Also it would eliminate kids feeling under privileged if they couldn't afford what was "in " for that week. Many kids argue they wouldn't have individuality but there still would be weekends that they would be able to wear whatever they want. All in all I support uniforms and wish I had them while growing up.

Yes, I would support school uniforms 100% . Why? Because I personally think that it is better to have everyone dress the same because then you can take care of your normal clothes better . You can use the clothes that you would usually wear daily for going out with family or friends. Also, in school there are a lot of mean people that can make fun of what you are wearing which can cause conflicts in school. It can cause a lot stress for students. I think that the school uniforms represent the school better. It may show that the school has more discipline. I wish that when I was in school I would of had uniforms. So yes school uniforms are the best way to go!

I am for school uniforms just because that's what I'm use to. Every since elementary every school that I have attended required you to wear a school uniforms. For me it eliminates alot of pressure about if your clothes are cool enough or as expensive as the next person. I also disagree that it takes away from a person individuality because the way you dress should never make your personality. Also some kids don't know how to dress to express themselves with being in dress code. Some people may think that uniforms may be to expensive but it's actually alot of programs that will help pay for school uniforms or even donate them for free.

I am all for school uniforms! In high school, I can remember saying "I wish we were required to wear uniforms". I believe they would eliminate many issues for students as well as teachers and administrators. For students, school uniforms will eliminate the "I don't know what to wear today" or the "I have nothing to wear" speels. This will allow students to focus more on school and not on appearance. For teachers and administrators, school uniforms will eliminate the hassle of having to enforce a dress code and having to write students up for improper dress. In return, this will allow the teachers and adminstrators to focus more on the students and academics.As far as school uniforms taking away individuality, I believe that every student has a chance to show individuality in more ways than just in their attire. It is up to them to show it!

I don’t believe that school uniforms are necessary. In my opinion they block simple avenues of self-expression and could encourage some people to express themselves in more extreme ways. Additionally, for many students’ families, purchasing a new wardrobe of uniforms would be a large extra expense that they may not be able to afford. Instead of school uniforms, I think there should be a strong dress code that limits students from dressing inappropriately or distractingly, I also think that this dress code should be enforced by school administration. Frequently, reprimands about dress code infractions are treated as a joke and disregarded because there is no follow through with whatever penalty that was assigned to breaking this rule.

I think I would oppose it. There are too many people who judge there level of respect just by looking at a uniform. I realize we are talking about kids. From the time they are kids, we are suppose to teach our kids that respect is given, not served. Unfortunately, I have seen how our individuality is loss. I work at a hospital in which a dress code is enforced, and I see how doctors do not knowledge nurse assistants just because they know what color uniform they where. I even hear how nurses treat a doctor as oppose to a radiology tech. Not all doctors are funny. No level of respect is given for those hard working individuals and why?, because they belong to a different color group.

I think that school uniforms are goods when the kids are in elementary school and even up to middle school but after that I think that needs to stop because at that point the child needs to figure out who they are. They still need regulations but for the most part I believe that they should be allowed to wear what they want to when they reach high school.

I will be honest. I am completely torn between the two issues. I am a creative person and the ability to show my individualism is important to me. I believe that you are essentially marketing yourself by how you present yourself through clothing. Why should anyone be allowed to have that right to tell someone how to dress?

As for the ability to bring students together for not being able to tell the difference between the poor and the wealthy does not add up for me. The uniforms themselves will show no class difference, but the accessories, back packs, purses, and shoes will. I grew up not in the best financial situation and yes some times it was hard to feel "cool", but I learned a lot about myself and self esteem by dealing with the situations when they happened to me.

If every student looks the same when they grow up how are they going to be able to express themselves individually?

I guess I am not as torn as I thought I was. No, I do not feel that school uniforms should be allowed. To stifle someones creative mind and not let children be able to confident within themselves because they have to look like everyone else is tragic. Plus if you take someones right to dress them self away, what's is the next step?

I personally disagree with the uniform policy. Although there are many positive sides to the uniform policy such as not worrying what to wear to fit it, or saving a lot of money. But in my opinion, I would not want to wear the same uniform and see students in the same uniform 5 days a week. I want to show my own style in clothing and be creative. All school has dress code, as long as one follows it, students should have free will to wear what one chooses. Of course there will always be the “rich” kids and the “poor” kids and there will be teasing, but as long as one dress how they want and be themselves, it shouldn’t matter. You can be poor and still dress nice.

I definitely support school uniforms. I went to two privates schools my whole life one where we had to wear uniforms and one where the school just had a dress code. I must say, that I liked having to wear the uniform much more. There is no need to worry about what to wear to school that morning, and everyone’s wearing them so there is no “standing out” in a bad way, or being made fun of. When I switched school, I couldn’t wait not to have uniforms, and just go by the dress code, and I soon found out that I hated it! I got tired of waking up an hour early just to find something to wear to “meet the requirements”, and more of my money was being spent to buy clothes just so I could wear to that school, were at the other school I could by clothes that I could wear out, on weekends ect, because of the uniforms. Looking back I am very thankful for school uniforms, not only does it look more professional, and bring a more appropriate attire for school, it doesn’t leave anyone feeling out of place, since everyone is dressed the same.

I am all for school uniforms. My son had to wear a uniform to school when we lived in the midwest. It firstly cuts down on the cost of buying clothes so the child will have something to wear on a day to day basis. Secondly it stops peer presure of not having the right kind of clothing or colors on while in school. This stops kids from having to fear the gang activity. If you wear uniforms to school you are all on one accord and no one has anything different than the other person. I am all for school uniforms.

I would definitely support school uniforms. I had to wear uniform in elementary school and I must say, it was awesome. In my opinion, I think wearing uniforms in school is more beneficial to students. I believe that uniforms will help people socialize more. Now-a-days, people often classify or limit who they talk to based on what they wear. If everyone wore pretty much the same thing, it would eliminate the problem because they wouldn't know what that person is like until they conversate with them. Also, uniforms would probably reduce fighting and violence in school. If someone chooses to "match" and wear mostly red or blue, that could portray an image of gang related activities. Wearing all red makes you a "blood" and wearing all blue makes you a "crip" and that could cause a problem. If everyone wore uniforms, that problem wouldn't exist. Uniforms are simple. You don't need to go out and buy the hottest looking clothing to impress people; save that for when you're out of school. You're in school to learn, and not to show off and be "cool."

I am all in favor of having uniforms. It takes away many of the stigma associated with clothes. Kids have to the potential to make long lasting friendships with other kids whom they would have otherwise ignored or judged because of the condition, style, or arrangement of the other kid's clothes. I also disagree that uniforms take away one's individuality, if anything, uniforms reinforce and stimulate a child's imagination to come up with new ways to differentiate themselves from everyone else. Many performing arts school have uniforms to encourage their students to bond and to and to explore not just how they look on the outside but how they look on the inside.

I think that kids should be able to wear normal clothes to school. I went to an elementary school that enforced uniforms and the kids were no better off for them. There was still separation of classes because the the kids with more money got better uniforms. I also noticed that they acted out more and I believe it's because the weren't aloud to express themselves in that way. Yes it's better for the dress code enforcers btu at what cost?

I would definitely support uniforms for all levels of public school. Clothes and fashion can be a distraction from what kids are actually in school to do; and that is to learn. There is no way to remove all obstacles for children from the school system, but I believe having school uniforms may remove some of them for many kids. It also removes a burden from parents as well as older children every morning as to what to wear. It may lead to some students speaking to classmates they normally may not have spoken to because of the label they were wearing.This is by no means is the end all solution to making public schools better, but I believe it could be a start. This has been the way private schools have worked for a long time and I believe it is about time public schools take a page from them. The next step may be looking into what kind of curriculum goes into some of the private schools that sets them apart.

I think school uniforms are a good idea. I'm all for individuality, but over the past 20 years, I have seen way too much time being spend disciplining children regarding to their clothing in school. School is a place where children need to be focused on learning, not on a fashion show. It's bad enough that the education system has been taken over by "teaching to pass the FCAT". There are plenty of other places that children can show their individuality outside of school. With programs available to help families that may not be able to afford uniforms, there is no reason that everyone cannot adhere to the restrictions. Uniforms would alleviate so much teen anguish regarding being able to wear the high fashions, not looking like the proper clique, or worrying about being ridiculed. I think that it would teach children that they need to look beyond the surface to find what makes people special and unique.I'm not even going to get started on the subject of children wearing more and more inappropriate clothing. What elementary or junior high school student needs to be able to wear a half shirt and short skirt anyway? Kids need to be able to be kids, they grow up way too fast anyway. We shouldn't be letting the Paris Hilton's of the world shove the kids out of childhood before their time. But I said I wasn't going to get into this didn't I lol.

There are pros and cons to uniforms. If schools have uniforms, students would talk to everyone and there would be hardly any judgments. On the other hand, it costs more and doesn't give students individualism. I love how everyone is different in their own little ways so I am against uniforms. Students should be able to show who they are through their clothes or make-up under circumstances of course. Plus, in the future when they get jobs or go out just in general, they are going to be judged and a person in uniform will never have that feeling of consciousness. They won’t know what to do with that feeling of being judged. Having individualism makes people stronger in a sense. They build confidence of who they are and they are okay with that.

I would support the school uniforms. It is my belief, that if students are not worried about having the lastest styles and what the kids will say, when they dont; they will pay more attention to whats important, like there school work. Kids can be very mean to each other to walk in school and have someone rag on you for not having what the have would ruin there day wnd make hem not want to go to school. But with make school uniforms manetory there should be some type of break in the cost because some families can not afford the unifoms.

I support school uniforms because they help to downplay the rift between the rich and poor. This means that students don't have to worry about looking good and making sure they are wearing the latest fashion. This will help to eliminate the time it takes students to get ready in the morning and it helps to save their parents money because they do not have to shop for several different outfits. Uniform does take away the individualistic mentality somewhat, but clothing is not the only way for students to express themselves. They can use art classes and other subjects to show their talents and strong points. Uniforms helps to reduce the overall peer pressure factor to dress a certain way and fit in with a certain crowd. It also keeps students from dressing inappropriately, thus creating a sense of equality throughout.

I am definitely for wearing uniforms to school. Uniforms eliminate a lot of problems. When everyone looks the same, there will be more respect for each other. No one will feel left out because they are not wearing a name brand. I was lucky enough to experience wearing uniforms and wearing regular clothes to school. Speaking from my experiences, uniforms were definitely my preference. I did not have to worry about what to wear or how many times I had worn it. Wearing regular clothes to school was like going to a fashion show. Everyday someone got in trouble or disobeying the dress code. The focus was not on school or what was being done in class, but on the latest trend in the fashion industry. Just like the Japanese guy that got in trouble, if I went to school in uniform that was not ironed I would get in trouble. He is representing his country and teammates and should have followed the dressing guidelines. As we saw, everyone had their shirt tucked in and was looking presentable. There are standards and if not followed there will be consequences for your own actions.

I support wearing uniforms to school. I believe that students can find individualism despite a uniform. It's about how the individual keeps them self and presents them self in the uniform. I wore uniform throughout my grad school year up to high school. Even though wear "regular clothes," as I called it, was fun I still wished I could go back to uniforms. To me, uniforms were much cheaper; saving my family expenses at the wash house and giving me more options for my weekend outfits and wearing uniforms did not hinder me from making friends. They just had a lot of questions. Overall, I believe we should embrace the uniform idea. It is easier, cheaper and allow kids to look pass someone's clothes and get to know the individual for who they are not what they have.

I support uniforms in school. I attended schools were uniforms were required. It is easier for a mother who is already busy with life, to know what outfit her son/daughter has to wear the next day at school. Even though just like the word says "uniform" so everyone pretty much looks the same, there will still be people comparing brands of shoes and so on. As for the japanese boy in my opinion he was trying to be "cool" to have his shirt untucked. I belive the punishment of having him not attend the opening ceremony was well deserved, especially if taxpayers money were involved in him attending the olympics in the first place. He should have a little more respect for his country, because im sure he is aware of the strick appearence guidelines.

I don't really support or oppose wearing school uniforms. If the schools or governmental programs are providing the uniforms and have policies in place on how to wear the uniforms, then the parents should enforce those rules and follow them if they want their children to continue their education at that particular school. I don't think that it is fair that a school is going to enforce a uniform policy and that parents should have to pay for the uniform. Because ultimately it creates more expense for parents. How many parents would want their children wearing their school uniform on a family outing right after school or to a special event? Not many that I know of. When we talk about high school kids most dress to their liking or style and wearing a school uniform out states that you are not an individual and that you belong to a group. I understand why have uniforms but then isn't that suppressing the idea of being an individual and standing apart from others to be your own person?

I think school uniforms should be in schools up to a certain point. In elementary school, kids aren't as judgmental and can be influenced easily so they usually don't have a problem wearing uniforms. When I was in middle school I remember some kids would wear the same thing almost every day and others would talk behind their backs. High schoolers are so into their own individuality that they create cliques based on their appearances. In most high schools, seniors are given more leniencies. If they can have a policy where it wouldn't be mandatory for them to wear uniforms on certain days, such as "casual Fridays", students may choose to wear something appropriate other than their uniform. This could be seen as a way to help them prepare for the real world. In my opinion, uniforms would ensure more equality and kids would focus more on the material rather than each other. They would be used to accepting all types of people without judging firsthand and take that with them in life.

I believe school uniforms would be a great idea. Based off my own experience of wearing it all through middle and some high school, I realized it eliminated some of the pressure of finding what to wear in the mornings. In some cases people who came from a family of finical issues they never had to worry about buying a lot of clothes all they needed was a two uniform shirts and two uniform pants and they would be ok. If you weren’t able to afford a uniform there programs set up to help you pay for it or cover half the cost.

I think school uniforms can be seen as a good idea. Students wouldn't have to worry about what they're wearing, or if it's acceptable to there peers. It would free up a lot of time in the morning that would usually be spent picking out an outfit. I had to wear school uniforms in elementary school, and it seemed fine to me.

I completely support uniforms in schools. Uniforms would eliminate the hassle of what to wear. It would also symbolize equality at school between the student body because one uniform cannot be better than the next. This would also eliminate criticism of those who cannot necessarily afford name brand clothes. If one argues the cost of uniforms oppose to the clothes one already has many school have programs to help parents purchase uniforms.Uniforms in school will help students want to look professional as well. It could possibly eliminate the trashy way students dress, whether its guys with their pants to their ankles or girls dressing to expose themselves. From personal experience i can say that uniforms made life easy and less stressful for students who did not have the nicest clothes. I went to a private school for 8 years and wore a uniform everyday. It made getting dressed so easy and taught disciple because we always had to look professional. After all the way you dress tells a lot about you.

I am completely supportive of school uniforms. I do not believe it strips away your individualism because clothes do not make the person. There plenty of school activities(sports, band, academic clubs) provided to show off who you are. Uniforms, to me, show a form of unity.That we, the students, are all here to learn and better ourselves. School uniforms would eliminate the morning hassle of what to wear and the fear of not wearing the right clothes. Therefore, kids can focus on the number one priority, their education.

I would support uniforms. If kids wore uniforms to school, then people wouln't judge each other on their clothing. Uniforms also save time, because you don't have to plan what you want to wear in the morning. However, even if school uniforms are enforced students will always find a way to add something for appearance even though it wouln't be as effective. On the other hand, when students wear clothes of their choice it allows them to be creative and original. Clothes are a way that people express themselves and i didn't enjoy wearing uniforms too much in school, so I would probably wear them two days out of the week. I'm not exactly sure where I stand with this issue.

I am fine with having school uniforms for students across the United States. I think it would be beneficial for people having difficulty trying to fit in with others in school. Dress code policies would not be a problem if everyone is wearing the same style of clothing. I do not agree that the uniforms should be paid for by taxpayer money. There are people who do not even have kids paying for someone else’s child. I also know from my own experience with people being handed things through taxpayer’s money. In the high school I attended each student was given the privilege of having a laptop. These laptops were funded mostly by taxpayer’s dollars. The students who didn’t appreciate the laptops that their fellow citizens provided for them would treat and misuse the computers to the extent of breaking them numerous times. If students who enjoy using computers and technology did that to public property, what would they do to something they may not like? I think that each person should pay for their own uniforms so that they will treat them with respect.

I personally disagree with school uniforms in all public schools. Private schools are a whole different story. When parents pay exorbitant amounts of money for their kids to go to a private school they should without a doubt know that their children are in the environment that they have intended for them to be in. This doesn’t necessarily mean that public schools are not giving kids a good or even great education. Another point that I want to make is my strong feeling against kids who base their relationships off of what other kids are wearing. Even at the elementary school age children should be taught by family, friends and the school system that no one should ever judge someone on what they wear. If we need to have uniforms made mandatory because of any reason having to do with students being picked on at school; than I feel that schools need to first do a better job at educating our children on accepting others.

I would support school uniforms. I also don't think that they take away individualism as students will always try to find alternate ways to express themselves. School uniforms saves so much time wasted on trying to figure out what to wear for school each morning and it also eliminates the hassle of trying to fit in. I had to wear uniforms when I was in school. Yet, it didn't totally eliminate the hassle of trying to fit in. Students always found a way to change the way the uniform should be worn. Girls wore tight t-shirts and pants, and guys wore their pants so low. Students also found other ways to differentiate themselves by the type or brand of shoes, backpack, and watch they wore to school. So, school uniforms didn't completely eliminate the stress of trying to fit in, but it reduced it. It also saved the time wasted on trying to decide what to wear and made it easier to get ready for school in the morning.

Honestly this whole debate is pointless as everybody has a diffrent opinion and will argue that point until they are blue in the face. My opinion is that no matter what you wear someone will make fun of you. Honestly the only thing i see that can happen is that youwont be able to tell the wealthy kids from the not so well off kids. I know for a fact that people will make fun of you based on the clothes you wear especially in this time where we all want to look like celebrities do in the magazines. I suffered throughout middle school and high school based on the fact that i did not have enough money too buy clothes at aeropostale and hollister and the factr that my parents bought my clothes at target and based the look of them off of what they thought was stylish. this caused an issue because my dad thought that tighter clothes were styliush and all that did was make other kids call me gay. would school uniforms help this problem maybe maybe not.If it were to help lessen the insults that are a result of what you wear i just see an increase of insults about your body whether you be to fat to skinny have bad acne or my favorite the size of your ears. I say thats my favorite because from elementary school through high school people made fun of my ears for beilng to big. it got so bad that i actually had ear surgery to fix it and still the insults continued. So yes school uniforms will stop some insults but reality is no matter what you do theres always going to be that one person who makes fun of you.

Although uniform may be cheaper I would have to oppose to the option of having uniforms in the school system. The reasons for my opposition is because I feel like wearing uniforms doesn’t help toward making learning better. Wearing uniforms doesn’t make a child focus more or even earn better grades. I feel like wearing uniforms take away from a persons freedom of style. If a child goes to school wearing what every other child is wearing (uniforms) their focus level would be more on paying attention to that rather than school work. When I was in elementary school I had to wear uniforms I disliked that fact that I had to wear them, I felt like I looked like everybody else and that’s something I didn’t want to do.

I wouldn't support school uniforms. I believe it makes people conform and doesn't allow for individualism. I also believe that it makes kids become followers instead of doing what they want to do because they feel like they have to do what everyone else is doing because it is the right thing to do. I also think it makes kids less creative because they are forced to wear clothes that are the same as everyone elses. Also the whole thing surrounding uniform shows strictness and no room for error. Which also makes the kids become adults quickern doesn't let them enjoy being a kid.

I do not agree with a uniform policy. I think it takes away from individuality. Sure it eliminates fitting it ect but its not giving people the chance to express themselves. I think its an easy way out. Instead of having the pressure of deciding what to wear to express who you are lets have the schools tell us what to wear. Eventually when people enter the "real world" they aren't going to have uniforms they are going to have to make choices. In the end i believe uniforms are a way of taking away a persons rights. The persons right to express themselves.

I fully support wearing school uniforms. It does create a sense of unity throughout the school where everyone is dressed pretty much the same. It makes it easier on parents and administrators. Parents will not have to worry about their child being made fun of just because they can’t afford certain “brand name” clothing. Or have to go through the time it takes for the child to pick out the right kind of clothes to wear to school. I remember having to wear uniforms back in elementary school and it was so much easier to choose an outfit because there were only like three color shirts to choose from. Administrators find it better because they won’t have to spend much of the busy day worrying about who is not in dress code and enforcing it.

I do not support school uniforms. It does not equalize anyone. If someone is rich there fellow class mates will know it its not rocket sience. You can usaually tell a person is wealthy by the attitude and personality because your enviorment shapes who you are personality wise anyway. In a school of collard shirts and long skirts there will still be the populars the geeks the criminals and the outcast. Uniforms will not change this its a fact. All uniforms do is take away our individuality.

I definitely support the enforcement of school uniforms. To this day getting ready for school is a hassle and most of the time I stress myself out more than i should trying to find an appropriate outfit for school. And that's the stress 90% of most students have. Uniforms has its many benefits including those less fortunate would appreciate not going through the constant battle of having to fit in with everyone else, since they would all be wearing the same thing. I do not feel as if uniforms make one lose their individualism and it should be supported everywhere.

I would support school uniforms. The majority of students find it very important to look their best when they go to school. They want to impress who they're attracted to, their friends, and just about everyone that attends their school. When clothes become a priority to students they lose focus on what they're suppose to be doing at school. Many students make fun of someone who repeats their clothes often and they judge them based on what they're wearing. Also, depending on what a student wears usually develops certain clicks. By having a uniform policy more students would be friends with a variety of students instead of just socializing with the ones that fit their status. This would allow students to get along more and be diverse. I also don't think that the issue with some family's not being able to afford uniforms would be a valid reason not to enforce uniforms because it's less expensive over all. The quantity of regular clothes is much greater than the quantity of uniforms purchased annually. So it would actually save money. Although, I do believe that not having uniforms allow students to express themselves through their choice in clothes. Overall, I think uniforms are a wise decision.

I am having mixed thoughts about this topic because on one side I wouldn't mind having to wear uniforms to school. It prevents the social segregation amoung the students with how they dress. It would also benefit the family because they wouldn't need to spill loads of money buying their children clothes. I had to wear uniform in 5th grade at a school in St. Pete and I honestly didn't mind it much because I knew everyone was wearing the same thing as me, so I didn't feel left out. Then on the other hand I love to express my individuality by the way I dress, so uniforms would definitely be a problem for those who want to express themselves through their garments. I love to dress up and look sophiscated and neat most of the time and other times I like to dress professional or youthful like outfits, and with uniforms it won't let me express my own different personality in my clothes.